STAMFORD — Construction of the new Westhill High School, likely the largest school project in Connecticut history, is now officially underway — at least symbolically. A collection of local and state officials gathered at the Stamford school Tuesday afternoon to celebrate a groundbreaking for the project, which includes demolishing the existing Westhill and replacing it with a new 450,000-square-foot building, expected to open in August 2029. Connecticut Department of Administrative Services Deputy Commissioner Eleanor Michael called the Westhill project one of the most significant in the state and likely the largest-ever school project in Connecticut history. The department agreed to pay for 80% of the project to rebuild the school, estimated at a cost of $446 million, last year. That would mean a reimbursement of up to $356.8 million. However, the total cost of the project may not reach that level. In March, the Stamford Board of Finance approved a guaranteed maximum price of $353.4 million for the work. City Director of Operations Matthew Quinones said there is an additional $45 million to $50 million anticipated in soft costs that could drive the total above $400 million. The new Westhill is designed to hold up to 2,458 students and will feature nearly 100 classrooms. https://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/education/article/new-westhill-high-construction-project-stamford-ct-22280831.php